Without a proper hook, it’s pretty obvious that there aren’t going to be too many fish getting pulled out on your next trip. Although very basic in principle, the hook is an absolutely essential piece of equipment that is often overlooked by newcomers to the sport.
Depending on what species of fish you are chasing, what technique you are using and where you are fishing, the style and size of your hook must be taken into account.
First let’s take a look at what makes up a hook. Understanding all aspects of hook will help when choosing which one best suits your needs.
This is easily explained in the graphic below:
Hook Sizes
Although it can be a little daunting at first, understand the size of a hook is actually very simple. Hook sizes are based on a starting hook size of zero.
Hook sizes with a number followed by a zero increase in size as the number goes up.
For example, a 5/0 (pronounced five bar oh) hook is one size up from a 4/0, which is one size up from a 3/0, and so on.
Hook sizes not followed by a zero, decrease in size as the number increases.
For example a size 5 hook is smaller than a size 4 hook, which is smaller than a size 3 hook.
Almost all hook manufacturers follow this sizing principle. HOWEVER, this does not mean that they match each other in actual sizing. For example, a Saltura 5/0 hook may be a little different in size to an Owner 5/0 hook.
It is a little different when it comes to fly fishing hooks, where manufacturers seem to follow a much stricter sizing protocol.
Types of Fishing Hooks
The following is a breakdown of some of the more popular styles of fishing hooks we use here:
Octy or Octopus hooks – The octopus or beak hook is the standard style for all types of fishing and are used for a catching a huge variety of fish species; from kahawai to blue cod and from snapper to kingfish.
Mutsu, Recurve or Circle hooks – These are perfect for all snapper fishing. Circle hooks are designed to hook in the corner of the mouth. Best used with chunks of bait, and always give the fish time to eat the bait and wait for the line to go tight before striking. As these are designed to hook fish in the corner of the mouth, it makes catch and release far easier and safer.
Wide Gap hooks –Often used for surfcasting, these hooks are great for displaying large baits that are often tied to the hook with bait cotton.
Live Bait hooks – These hooks are made to sink powerfully into a fish’s jaw and not let go. They are often large and presented in a perfect ‘u’ shape which aids in a strong hook-up.
Kirby hooks – These are very popular ‘j’ shaped hooks that have a slightly longer shank. Suitable for catching a wide variety of fish but often used on smaller species.
AUTHOR
Andy Spear
Fishing Category Manager / Buyer
